Hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly

ABSTRACT

A hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly that includes a barrel body having a sidewall, two opposing ends, defining and enclosing a barrel channel, and defining a button translation channel through the sidewall of the barrel body, a hub translatably disposed within the barrel channel, an outer cannula member with one end disposed within the hub and a second end for contacting an individual&#39;s skin, defining an eye thereon, an inner needle member of a substantially rigid material disposed within the outer cannula member and having a second inner needle free end that is of a sharp configuration, and having a button translatably coupled to the hub, disposed within the button translation channel, and operably configured to modulate the hub and outer cannular member independent of the inner needle member to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end to puncture the individual&#39;s skin.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to cannulas and more particularly relates to blunt cannulas with an added mechanism to allow the initial puncture through the tissue.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Typically, a cannula is a hollow needle commonly used with a syringe to inject substances into the body or structure (e.g., fruit) or extract fluids from it. Cannulas come in many forms, but when intended to be attached to a syringe, it's usually composed of a hollow tube attached to a hub made of polymer, designed with a luer-lock or other similar mechanism to allow the cannula to be secured to the syringe. On the other end, these cannulas can either be sharp or blunt. The hole can be at the very end, or on the side. Some cannulas intended for fat harvesting have several holes.

A needle can be solid or hollow. The term “needle” suggests the end is sharp, therefore, a sharp cannula is commonly known as a “hypodermic needle” when intended to inject fluids into the dermis. The sharp end makes it easy to introduce the cannula into any type of tissue, consequently making it a contender for potential complications related to the injection of fluid into the wrong tissue. Not only going through a vein will cause internal bleeding leading to apparent bruising, but more importantly it can lead to inter-vascular injection, which can cause vascular occlusion, leading to potential blindness if injected in the retinal artery.

Using a blunt cannula is a great solution to avoid these problems. The non-sharp nature of it makes it impossible to go through the initial layer of the dermis, therefore requires the user to make a puncture hole with a sharp edge before being able to introduce the blunt cannula.

Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the prior art as discussed above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly that overcomes the hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of the heretofore-known devices and methods of this general type and that injects a fluid into the subsurface layer of the skin. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly provides an outer cannula member and an inner needle member that work together to penetrate the outer layer of the skin, and then inject a fluid into the tissue, respectively. At least one button is translatably coupled to a hub coupled to a cannula member to cause the inner needle member through a stopper member disposed at the distal free end of the outer cannula member. This facilitates penetration of the skin, while also enabling controllable discharge of a fluid contained in the outer cannula members channel into the tissue.

In one possible embodiment, the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly comprises a barrel body having an outer surface, an inner surface opposing the outer surface of the barrel body, defining and enclosing a barrel channel, and defining a button translation channel defined therethrough; an outer cannula member with a first cannula end, a second cannula end, a cannula length separating the first and second cannula ends, of a slender configuration, defining an eye disposed proximal to the second cannula end, with an inner surface defining and enclosing a needle channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel; a hub coupled to first cannula end, the hub defining and enclosing a hub channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel and the needle channel; an inner needle member of a substantially rigid material, having a first inner needle end, a second inner needle free end opposite the first inner needle end and of a sharp configuration, and an inner needle member length separating the first inner needle end and the second inner needle free end; and at least one button coupled to the hub and operably configured to translate within the button translation channel to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end with the eye fluidly coupled to the barrel channel.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the at least one button is directly coupled to the hub and operably configured to cause translation of the hub and the outer cannula member to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the button is operably configured to have a button translation path with a static position including the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to the second cannula end and within the needle channel and with an insertion position with the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to second cannula end and outside of the needle channel.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the button translation path is curvilinear.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the button is operably configured to translate the outer cannula member independent of the inner needle to translate the inner needle through the second cannular end.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the hub is directly coupled to the outer cannular member.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, the hub is translatably coupled to the barrel body.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the button translation channel is of a curvilinear path.

In accordance with another feature, the hybrid blunt cannula further comprises a stopper member coupled to the second cannula end in a watertight configuration and defining a terminal end of the outer cannula member, wherein the insertion position of the at least one button includes a portion of the inner needle member length spanning through the stopper member.

In accordance with yet another feature, the stopper member is of a butyl rubber material.

In accordance with a further feature, the stopper member is configured to at least partially protrude past the terminal end of the second cannula end.

In accordance with a second possible embodiment, the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly comprises a barrel body having a sidewall with an outer surface and with an inner surface opposing the outer surface, two opposing ends defining a barrel body length separating the two opposing ends, defining and enclosing a barrel channel spanning the barrel body length, and defining a button translation channel through the sidewall of the barrel body; a hub translatably disposed within the barrel channel and defining a hub channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel; an outer cannula member with a first cannula end disposed within the hub channel and coupled to the hub, a second cannula end, a cannula length separating the first and second cannula ends, of a slender configuration, defining an eye disposed proximal to the second cannula end, with an inner surface defining and enclosing a needle channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel and the hub channel; an inner needle member of a substantially rigid material, having a first inner needle end disposed within the barrel channel, a second inner needle free end opposite the first inner needle end, of a sharp configuration, and disposed proximal to second cannular end and within the needle channel, and an inner needle member length separating the first inner needle end and the second inner needle free end; and at least one button translatably coupled to the hub, disposed within the button translation channel, and operably configured to modulate the hub and outer cannular member independent of the inner needle member to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the hub is disposed proximal to one of the two opposing ends of the barrel body.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the button is operably configured to have a button translation path with a static position including the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to the second cannula end and within the needle channel and with an insertion position with the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to second cannula end and outside of the needle channel.

In accordance with yet another feature, the button translation path is curvilinear.

In accordance with a further feature of the present invention, the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly further comprises a stopper member coupled to the second cannula end in a watertight configuration and defining a terminal end of the outer cannula member, wherein the insertion position of the at least one button includes a portion of the inner needle member length spanning through the stopper member.

In accordance with another feature of the present invention, the stopper member is configured to at least partially protrude past the terminal end of the second cannula end.

Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, it is, nevertheless, not intended to be limited to the details shown because various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of the invention.

Other features that are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of the invention. While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not drawn to scale.

Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term “providing” is defined herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period of time. Also, for purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof relate to the invention as oriented in the figures and is not to be construed as limiting any feature to be a particular orientation, as said orientation may be changed based on the user's perspective of the device. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description.

As used herein, the terms “about” or “approximately” apply to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. In this document, the term “longitudinal” should be understood to mean in a direction corresponding to an elongated direction of the needle body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and which together with the detailed description below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and advantages all in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an elevated side view of the front of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, shown in FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an elevated side view of the rear of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, shown in FIG. 1 , in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a frontal view of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is an elevated side view of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, showing the eye and the stopper member at the free end of the outer needle, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a sectioned side view of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly, showing the button translation path and the free end of the inner needle member extending past the stopper member, in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 depicts an exemplary hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly with the button in a half-way position in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 depicts a fragmentary elevational right-side view of the assembly in FIG. 8 with the barrel body, the hub, and the button in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional view along section line 10-10 in FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 11 depicts a cross-sectional view along section line 11-11 in FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 12 depicts a bottom plan view of the barrel body, the hub, and the button in FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 13 depicts a top plan view of the barrel body, the hub, and the button in FIG. 9 ; and

FIG. 14 depicts an elevational rear view of the barrel body, the hub, and the button in FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 15 depicts an elevational left-side view of the barrel body, the hub, and the button in FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 16 depicts an elevational front view of the barrel body, the hub, and the button in FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 17 depicts the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly in FIG. 8 with the button in a static or first position without the needle member protruding outwardly from the cannula member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 depicts a cross-sectional view of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly in FIG. 8 with the button in an insertion or second position with the needle member protruding outwardly from the cannula member in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 19 depicts a cross-sectional view of the hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly in FIG. 17 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While the specification concludes with claims defining the features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms.

The present invention provides a novel and efficient hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly has been disclosed that injects a fluid into the sublayer of the skin. Embodiments of the invention provide an outer cannula member and an inner needle member that work together to penetrate the outer layer of the skin, and then inject a fluid into the tissue, respectively. In addition, embodiments of the invention provide at least one button translatably coupled to a bifurcated portion of the inner needle member to urge the inner needle member through a stopper member disposed at the distal free end of the outer cannula member. This facilitates penetration of the skin, while also enabling controllable discharge of a fluid contained in the outer cannula members channel into the tissue.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , one embodiment of the present invention is shown in a perspective view. FIG. 1 shows several advantageous features of the present invention, but, as will be described below, the invention can be provided in several shapes, sizes, combinations of features and components, and varying numbers and functions of the components.

The first example of a hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly 100, hereafter needle assembly 100, as shown in FIG. 1 , includes an outer cannula member 106 and an inner needle member 710 that work together to penetrate tissue, e.g., the outer layer of the skin, and inject a fluid therein. The inner needle member 710 at least partially resides inside the outer cannula member 106 when not in use, is disposed in a coaxial and axially movable relationship with the outer cannula member 106, and is operably configured to puncture tissue before a portion of the outer cannula member 106 is inserted into the tissue.

The outer cannula member 106 has a blunt tip or second end 206, in that it does not penetrate the tissue when placed thereon or subject to forces ranging from 5-101bf. A stopper member 116 encloses and forms a watertight seal with the second, likely terminal, end 206 of the outer cannula member 106. The stopper member 116 may substantially restrict release of the fluid from the needle channel 706 of the second end 206 of the outer cannula member 106, even after penetrated by the inner needle member 710 during injection process. A first inner end of the inner needle member 710 may include a bifurcated portion 722. The bifurcated portion 722 may be of a flexible, spring tensioned configuration that enables button-operated urging of the inner needle member 710 to an insertion position proximal to the tissue targeted for penetration.

In some embodiments, the insertion position urges the inner needle member 710 through the stopper member 116, and partially past the terminal end 206 of the outer cannula member 106, so as to discharge the fluid into the tissue. The flexible bifurcated portion 722 of the inner needle member 710 biases the inner needle member 710 to a static position, which is effective for drawing in and retaining the fluid before discharge. This use of the inner needle member 710 also facilitates penetration of the tissue at a desired depth, while also enabling controllable discharge of the fluid into the tissue.

In some embodiments, the fluid is withdrawn from a bottle or syringe. The fluid may include, without limitation, Botox™, a neurotoxic protein, and liquids and gels used in cosmetic surgery. However, the needle assembly 100 may be operable with any type of liquid or gel used in medical surgery, general medicine practice, botanical procedure, cosmetic procedure, laboratory procedure, or other environment where selective penetration of tissue and use of a cannula is desired.

Looking again at FIG. 1 and FIG. 7 , the outer cannula member 106 is of a substantially rigid material (e.g., polyurethane) operable to penetrate tissue once penetrated by the inner needed member 710. The outer cannula member 106 is generally elongated, and has a slender configuration that forms a needle channel 706 therein. The needle channel 706 is sized and dimensioned to retain the inner needle member 710 in a coaxial relationship, as described below. The needle channel 706, along with a barrel channel 702, is configured to contain the fluid therein until desired by the user, e.g., by depression of a syringe/plunger/piston assembly (not shown).

Looking at FIGS. 1-2 in combination with FIG. 7 , the outer cannula member 106 is defined by a first cannula end 200 and an opposing second cannula end 202. The distance between the cannula ends 200, 202 forms a cannula length 204. In one non-limiting embodiment, the cannula length 204 is about 72 mm. However, in other embodiments, the cannula length 204 may be longer or shorter. In one possible embodiment, the first and second cannula ends 200, 202 are defined by a diameter less than the diameter of the cannula length 204.

The first cannula end 200 may be disposed proximal to the hub 108. The second cannula end 202 is preferably the terminal end 206 of the assembly and may be where passage of the fluid occurs, distally from the operator. The second cannula end 202, or a location proximal thereto, may define an eye 110, or orifice, through which at least apportion of the fluid discharges during injection. The eye 110 is preferably disposed proximal to the second cannula end 202, i.e., proximal is defined herein as being at or near, within approximately 10%, a referencing structure, wherein the eye 110 can be seen adjacent to the second terminal end 206 of the outer cannula member 106. The eye 110 may be relatively small opening, e.g., 1/16 inches in diameter, and may be defined by a concave shape.

The outer cannula member 106 also includes an inner surface 704 that defines and encloses the needle channel 706. The needle channel 706 is fluidly coupled to a barrel channel 702 of a barrel body 102, where the fluid may at least partially reside and be transported, until or during injection. In one embodiment, the outer cannula member 106 is sized as a 21 gauge, or a 0.80 mm diameter. However, for purposes of the present invention, the outer cannula member 106 may be dimensioned otherwise.

The stopper member 116 is coupled to the second cannula end 202 of the outer cannula member 106 in a watertight configuration. The stopper member 116 may also define the terminal end 206 of the assembly 100, forming a watertight seal therein. As best seen in FIG. 1 , the stopper member 116 protrudes, or bulges slightly beyond the terminal end 206 of the outer cannula member 106. In one non-limiting embodiment, the stopper member 116 is fabricated from a butyl rubber material, or other polymer used with medicinal instrumentation. Such material is efficacious for creating a watertight seal that restricts fluid from seeping out of needle channel 706, until penetrated by the inner needle member 710.

The needle assembly 100 further comprises a barrel body 102 that may couple (directly or indirectly—as defined above) to the first cannula end 200 of the outer cannula member 106. The barrel body 102 is used to retain the fluid that is injected or withdrawn. The barrel body 102 may also provide a gripping surface for operation of the needle assembly 100. Thus, ridges, arms, or textured surfaces may form at the outer surface of the barrel body 102. In some embodiments, the outer cannula member 106 is removably coupled to the barrel body 102. Thus, the barrel body 102 may have a threaded inner surface that allows for easy decoupling from the of the first cannula end 200 of the outer cannula member 106. An orifice in the barrel body 102 may also allow for friction fit coupling and decoupling to the first end 200 of the outer cannula member 106.

As shown best in FIG. 1 , FIG. 3 , and FIG. 7 , the barrel body 102 has an outer surface 104 and an opposing inner surface 700. In one non-limiting embodiment, the barrel body 102 is of a generally cylindrical or disc-like shape. The barrel body 102 defines and encloses a barrel channel 702 that forms a volume sufficient to contain or cause transport of the fluid prior to or during injection without leakage therethrough. The fluid may be poured directly into the barrel channel 702 or inserted therein using a syringe/plunger/piston assembly.

In some embodiments, an outer shell 114 may couple to, and surround the barrel body 102. Like the barrel body 102, the outer shell 114 may have a generally cylindrical shape. The outer shell 114 may define two opposing button apertures 500 a, 500 b. Suitable materials for the barrel body 102 and the outer shell 114 may include, without limitation, polypropylene, rubber, and a polymer conventionally used in medicinal instrumentation.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the needle assembly 100 utilizes a syringe/plunger/piston assembly (schematically represented with numeral 208) that is independently and translatably coupled to the back end of the barrel body 102. Specifically, a plunger handle or piston may be configured to be forcibly displaced fluid housed in a container or in the barrel body 102 along the longitudinal axis of the barrel body 102. In operation, the plunger handle may be pulled back to draw in the fluid or depressed to emit fluid.

The needle assembly 100 further comprises a hub 108 that couples to the barrel body 102 and the first cannula end 200, positioning therebetween in an interposed arrangement (see FIG. 6 ). In some embodiments, the hub 108 may have a threaded inner surface that allows for easy coupling and decoupling from the barrel body 102 and the first cannula end 200 of the outer cannula member 106. However, in other embodiments, the hub 108 may have a small orifice that enables the first cannula end 200 of the outer cannula member 106 to couple in a friction fit relationship. In some embodiments, the hub 108 may be cylindrical in shape, and have flanges that extend out to provide a gripping surface.

The hub 108 defines and encloses a hub channel 708, which fluidly couples to the barrel channel 702 and the needle channel 706. The needle channel 706 may also contain a portion of the fluid until or during discharge thereof. As best illustrated in FIG. 4 , the hub 108 may have a smaller diameter than the barrel body 102. The hub 108 is configured to securely fasten the outer cannula member 106 and/or the inner needle member 710 to the barrel body 102. In this connective arrangement, the hub channel 708 carries the fluid from the barrel channel 702, to the needle channel 706 for discharge (injection) and/or transportation through the eye 110 or another orifice defined on the outer cannula member 106.

Looking ahead to FIG. 7 , the needle assembly 100 further comprises an inner needle member 710, which works in conjunction with the outer cannula member 106 to penetrate the skin and discharge the fluid. In some embodiments, the inner needle member 710 has a sharp, narrow configuration consistent with conventional needle tips. The inner needle member 710 is disposed coaxially within the barrel channel 702 of the barrel body 102, and the needle channel 706 of the outer cannula member 106. The inner needle member 710 may be axially displaced through the needle channel 706 (preferably through a median longitudinal axis) by at least one button 112 a-b between a static position 720 a and an insertion position 720 b, described below. In this manner, the assembly 100 may draw in a fluid from a bottle or syringe, and inject the fluid into tissue, e.g., sublayer skin, fruit, etc.

In some embodiments, the inner needle member 710 has a first inner needle end 714, and an opposing second inner needle free end 716. An inner needle member length 724 spans between the first and second inner needle free ends 714, 716. In one non-limiting embodiment, the inner needle member length is about 72 mm. However, in other embodiments, the inner needle member length 724 may be longer or shorter. The second inner needle free end 716 is sufficiently sharp to penetrate the stopper member 216. In some embodiments, the sharp configuration of the second inner needle free end 716 may be tapered, beveled, sharp, irregular, or combinations thereof.

The first inner needle end 714 may be disposed proximal to an operator of the needle assembly 100, and in contact with the one or more button(s) 112 a, 112 b. In some embodiments, the first inner needle end 714 comprises a bifurcated portion 722. The bifurcated portion 722 has two bifurcated sections 712 a-b that curve outwardly from the first inner needle end 714. As shown in FIG. 7 , each bifurcated section 712 a-b, respectively, has a first inner needle end 714 a-b opposing a second inner needle free end 716.

The bifurcated sections 712 a-b may be hyperbolically shaped, so as to create a coiled effect, with spring tension or potential energy generated therein. As described below, this hyperbolically shape allows for urging the inner needle member 710 between static and injection positions 720 a, 720 b. However, in alternative embodiments, a spring extends between the at least one button 112 a-b and the first inner needle end 714 for urging the inner needle member 710 between static and injection positions. In both cases, the one or more bifurcated section(s) 712 a-b serve as a spring to urge the button(s) 112 a-b outwardly from the outer shell 114 and, when the button(s) 112 a-b are depressed, cause the distal end 716 of the inner needle member 710 forward through the stopper member 116. When the button(s) 112 a-b are released, the distal end 716 of the inner needle member 710 moves rearward or recedes into the needle channel 706 from the second end 206 of the outer cannula member 106.

The inner needle member 710 may be constructed from a substantially rigid material that enables the second inner needle free end 716 to span, or penetrate, the stopper member 116 covering the terminal end 206 of the outer cannula member 106. In one non-limiting embodiment, the inner needle member 710 is fabricated from a rigid hypodermic material, such as heat-treatable stainless steel or carbon steel. To prevent corrosion, the inner needle member 710 may be nickel plated. In another embodiment, the inner needle member 710 is sized as a 31 gauge, or a 0.25 mm diameter.

Looking now at FIG. 5 , the needle assembly 100 utilizes one or more (but preferably two) button(s) 112 a-b to operate the inner needle member 710. The buttons 112 a, 112 b are accessible through the button apertures 500 a-b in the outer shell 114. The at least one button 112 a-b is independently translatably coupled to barrel body 102, through the button apertures 500 a-b. Thus, by depressing the button(s), actuation along a button translation path 718 is achieved.

In another exemplary method of operation, the buttons 112 a-b are depressed to actuate the inner needle member 710 and is biased to return to the raised level through the spring tension from the bifurcated sections 712 a-b of the inner needle member 710. The buttons 112 a-b are also dependently translatably (e.g., linearly) coupled to the inner needle member 710 along the inner needle member length 724.

As FIG. 7 shows, the button translation path 718 allows the at least one button 112 a-b to move between a static position 720 a and an insertion position 720 b. The static position 720 a is defined with the second inner needle free end 716 disposed proximal to the second cannula end 202, and within the needle channel 706. In one exemplary definition, the static position of the at least one button 112 a-b includes the needle channel 706 of the outer cannula member 106 containing a fluid for transportation caused by an induced pressure within the channels 702, 706, 708. The buttons 112 a-b may be biased to a raised level when in the static position 720 a.

The insertion position 720 b enables the distal end 716 of the needle member 710 to penetrate tissue and for discharging the fluid through the assembly 100. In one possible embodiment, the insertion position 720 b is defined with the second inner needle free end 716 disposed proximal to second cannula end 202 and outside of the needle channel 706. In one non-limiting embodiment, the second inner needle free end 716 of the inner needle member 710 extends approximately 0.25 inches beyond the second end 206 of the cannula member 106 and the stopper member 116.

In one exemplary definition, the insertion position 720 b of the button 112 a-b includes a portion of the inner needle member length 724 spanning through the stopper member 116, wherein the inner needle member 710 and the stopper member 116 are in a watertight configuration. This allows the fluid to pass through the eye 110 and into the tissue of the target object. Thus, in the insertion position of the at least one button 112 a-b, the inner needle member 710 is urged forward to pass through the barrel channel 702, the hub channel 708, and the needle channel 706, before, the second cannula end 202 at least partially penetrates the tissue. The outer cannula member 106 thereby pierces the tissue to enable transportation of the fluid relative to the tissue. The at least one button 112 a-n may be actuated to the insertion position 720 b by depressing the button 112 a-b. In one embodiment, the buttons 112 a-b may be operably configured to be locked in the insertion position 720 b by a catch member, but preferred embodiments provide for the buttons 112 a-b to be selectively translated and free moved by the user, whereby releasing force on the buttons 112 a-b causes them to spring back into the static position.

The two bifurcated sections 712 a-b of the inner needle member 710 are configured with a spring tension. Each bifurcated section 712 a-b at the first inner needle end 714 couples to the two buttons 112 a-b. In one possible embodiment, the first inner needle ends 714 a-b of the two bifurcated sections 712 a-b each respectively couple to the two buttons 112 a-b. The two bifurcated sections 712 a-b may be a flexible material and of an arcuate configuration that biases the two buttons 112 a-b to the static position 720 a. In the static position 720 a, the button 112 a-b may be raised and accessible for depressing.

Thus, when the buttons 112 a-b are depressed along the button translation path 718 to the injection position 720 b, the bifurcated sections 712 a-b urge the inner needle member 710 through the stopper member 116 at the terminal end 206 of the outer cannula member 106. After injecting the fluid, the spring tension of the bifurcated sections 712 a-b of the inner needle member 710 displace the buttons 112 a-b back to the static position 720 a.

In conclusion, the needle assembly 100 provides an outer cannula member 106 comprising a needle channel, an eye, and a stopper member attached at the second end thereof. The needle assembly 100 also provides an inner needle member 710 that is coaxially disposed inside the outer needle's channel 706. The inner needle member 710 comprises a bifurcated portion. Buttons dependently and translatably couple to the bifurcated portion of inner needle. The buttons follow a translation path between a static position and an insertion position.

The static position 720 a enables the second inner needle free end 716 of the inner needle member 710 to be proximal to the second cannula end 202 of the outer cannula member 106. However, the second inner needle free end 716 remains within the needle channel 706. The insertion position 720 b, on the other hand, is effective for injecting the fluid. Thus, the insertion position 720 b enables the second inner needle free end 716 to extend partially outside of the outer needle's channel 706 and terminal end 206 of the outer cannula member 106. And in the insertion position 720 b, the second inner needle free end 716 penetrates the stopper member 116 to discharge of the fluid.

The second cannula end 202 of the outer cannula member 106 is then oriented towards the tissue, e.g., skin. The stopper member 116 abuts the skin in preparation for injection. The buttons 112 a-b at the outer shell 114 of barrel body 102 are depressed along the button translation path 718 to an injection position 720 b. Consequently, the bifurcated sections 712 a-b urge the inner needle member 710 to pass through the barrel channel 702, the hub channel 708, and the needle channel 706, and into the tissue of the target. Then, after the inner needle member 710 penetrates the issues, the second cannula end 202 at least partially penetrates the tissue. The inner needle member 710 pierces the stopper member 116 and enters the tissue, thereby causing the second end 206 of the cannula member 106 enter the tissue. Once the user positions the distal end 206 of the cannula member 106 into the tissue, the user may then cause selectively transport of the fluid to/from the tissue, e.g., using the syringe assembly 208.

With reference to FIGS. 8-13 , another embodiment of a hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly 800 is depicted. More specifically, assembly 800 has many of the same features, components, functionality, and purpose as the assembly 100 depicted in FIG. 1 , but it is structurally configured with one or more button(s) 812 that is configured to be translated to move the hub 1002 and/or the needle member 818 that causes the needle member 818 to protrude through the cannula member 804. The protrusion of the needle member 818 through the cannular member 804 will puncture an individual's skin for insertion of the cannula member 804 therein. FIG. 8 depicts the assembly 800 with the needle member 818 partially protruding from the cannula member 804 and the button 812 moved approximately halfway in the button translation path. FIG. 18 depicts the assembly 800 with the needle member 818 partially protruding from the cannula member 804 and the button 812 moved into an exemplary insertion or second position in the button translation path. Specifically, the button 812 can be seen raised to the highest and maximum extent along the button translation path.

When the cannular member 804 is inserted in an individual's skin, a user may depress a plunger or otherwise cause translation of a fluid or other material through the assembly and out through an eye 810 defined on the cannular member 804. FIG. 19 depicts the assembly 800 with the needle member 818 in a first or static position with the needle member 818 completely disposed within the needle channel 1800 and the button 812 moved into an exemplary static or first position in the button translation path, wherein the cannular member 804 is then preferably inserted into the user's skin. As best depicted in FIG. 19 , the large arrow 1900 depicts the exemplary movement of fluid or other material though the assembly 800. As exemplified in FIG. 19 , the hub 1002 may include a hasket 1902 that inhibits or prevents any fluid from escaping around the hub 1002 and ensuring flow through the channels and out through the eye 810. The arrows 1802, 1904 in FIGS. 18-19 , respectively, depict an exemplary movement or path of the hub 1001, which is preferably linear.

More specifically, the barrel body 802 of the assembly is very similar to the above-described body, but includes an outer surface, an inner surface opposing the outer surface of the barrel body, and defines and encloses a barrel channel 1000 spanning the length of the barrel body 802 defined by two opposing ends thereon. As discussed above, one end of the barrel body 802 is shaped and sized to receive, or be received within, a plunger or other device configured to insert a fluid (e.g., a filler) or other mater through the body 802. The barrel body 802 can be seen defining button translation channel 900 defined therethrough. Said differently, the body 802 can be seen having a sidewall 1008 with an outer surface and with an inner surface opposing the outer surface, wherein the body 802 includes two opposing ends 1004, 1006 defining the barrel body length separating the two opposing ends 1004, 1006. The barrel channel 1000 spans the barrel body length and the sidewall 1008 defines a button translation channel 900 therethrough for movement of a part of the button 812.

Similar to the cannular member described above, the outer cannula member 804 includes a first cannula end 806, a second cannula end 808, a cannula length separating the first and second cannula ends 806, 808, and is of a slender configuration. The outer cannula member 804 defines eye 810 disposed proximal to the second cannula end 808 and includes an inner surface defining and enclosing a needle channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel 1000 and a hub channel 1100. Specifically, the hub 1002 can be seen coupled to first cannula end 806 and defines and encloses the hub channel 1100 that is fluidly coupled to the barrel channel 1000 and the needle channel.

Also like the above referenced needle member, the assembly 800 includes an inner needle member of a substantially rigid material, having a first inner needle end, a second inner needle free end opposite the first inner needle end and of a sharp configuration, and an inner needle member length separating the first inner needle end and the second inner needle free end. The first inner needle end is disposed within the barrel channel 1000 and preferably retained by an internal wall 1010 of the body 802 with compression, adhesive, and/or one or more fastener(s). The needle member also includes a second inner needle free end, opposite the first inner needle end, that is of a sharp configuration, and disposed proximal to second cannular end 808 and within the needle channel (when the button is in a static or first position along a button translation path). The needle member defines an inner needle member length separating the first inner needle end and the second inner needle free end. The sharp configuration of the second inner needle free end is configured to puncture an individual's skin and, in some embodiments, puncture and extend through a stopper member 814 coupled to the second cannula end in a watertight configuration.

The assembly 800 can beneficially be seen with at least one button 812 coupled to the hub 1002 and operably configured to translate within the button translation channel 900 to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end 808 with the eye 810 fluidly coupled to the barrel channel 1000. In one embodiment, the eye 810 is proximally located a length 816 of approximately 1-3 mm from the second end of the cannular member 804, wherein the second inner needle free end is also 1-8 mm from the second end of the cannular member 804. The button 812 preferably has a concave surface to facilitate in modulating the hub or translating the button 812 in the button translation channel 900. The button 812 may also be translatably coupled to the hub 1002, disposed within the button translation channel 900, and operably configured to modulate the hub 1002 and outer cannular member 804 independent of the inner needle member to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end 808 and puncture the individual's skin, thereby providing an opening for the cannular member 804.

In one embodiment, the one or more button(s) 812 are directly coupled to the hub 1002 and operably configured to cause translation of the hub 1002 and the outer cannula member 804 to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end 808. Said differently, the button 812 is operably configured to have a button translation path with a static or first position including the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to the second cannula end and within the needle channel and with an insertion or second position with the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to second cannula end and outside of the needle channel.

In one embodiment, the button translation path is curvilinear and the sidewall 1008 defines portions defined to lock the button 812 in a particular position or inhibit movement of the button unless a sufficient force is overcome, e.g., 1-21 bf. The button 812 is operably configured to translate the outer cannula member 804 independent of the inner needle to translate the inner needle through the second cannular end 808 and the hub 1002 may be directly coupled to the outer cannular member 804 and the hub 1002 is translatably coupled to the barrel body 802.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this disclosure also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the above-described features. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly comprising: a barrel body having an outer surface, an inner surface opposing the outer surface of the barrel body, defining and enclosing a barrel channel, and defining a button translation channel defined therethrough; an outer cannula member with a first cannula end, a second cannula end, a cannula length separating the first and second cannula ends, of a slender configuration, defining an eye disposed proximal to the second cannula end, with an inner surface defining and enclosing a needle channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel; a hub coupled to first cannula end, the hub defining and enclosing a hub channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel and the needle channel; an inner needle member of a substantially rigid material, having a first inner needle end, a second inner needle free end opposite the first inner needle end and of a sharp configuration, and an inner needle member length separating the first inner needle end and the second inner needle free end; and at least one button coupled to the hub and operably configured to translate within the button translation channel to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end with the eye fluidly coupled to the barrel channel.
 2. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one button is directly coupled to the hub and operably configured to cause translation of the hub and the outer cannula member to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end.
 3. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the button is operably configured to have a button translation path with a static position including the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to the second cannula end and within the needle channel and with an insertion position with the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to second cannula end and outside of the needle channel.
 4. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 3, wherein the button translation path is curvilinear.
 5. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 3, wherein the button is operably configured to translate the outer cannula member independent of the inner needle to translate the inner needle through the second cannular end.
 6. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the hub is directly coupled to the outer cannular member.
 7. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the hub is translatably coupled to the barrel body.
 8. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 1, wherein the button translation channel is of a curvilinear path.
 9. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 3, further comprising: a stopper member coupled to the second cannula end in a watertight configuration and defining a terminal end of the outer cannula member, wherein the insertion position of the at least one button includes a portion of the inner needle member length spanning through the stopper member.
 10. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 9, wherein the stopper member is of a butyl rubber material.
 11. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 9, wherein the stopper member is configured to at least partially protrude past the terminal end of the second cannula end.
 12. A hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly 800 comprising: a barrel body having a sidewall with an outer surface and with an inner surface opposing the outer surface, two opposing ends defining a barrel body length separating the two opposing ends, defining and enclosing a barrel channel spanning the barrel body length, and defining a button translation channel through the sidewall of the barrel body; a hub translatably disposed within the barrel channel and defining a hub channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel; an outer cannula member with a first cannula end disposed within the hub channel and coupled to the hub, a second cannula end, a cannula length separating the first and second cannula ends, of a slender configuration, defining an eye disposed proximal to the second cannula end, with an inner surface defining and enclosing a needle channel fluidly coupled to the barrel channel and the hub channel; an inner needle member of a substantially rigid material, having a first inner needle end disposed within the barrel channel, a second inner needle free end opposite the first inner needle end, of a sharp configuration, and disposed proximal to second cannular end and within the needle channel, and an inner needle member length separating the first inner needle end and the second inner needle free end; and at least one button translatably coupled to the hub, disposed within the button translation channel, and operably configured to modulate the hub and outer cannular member independent of the inner needle member to cause the inner needle to translate through the second cannular end.
 13. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 12, wherein the hub is disposed proximal to one of the two opposing ends of the barrel body.
 14. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 12, wherein the button is operably configured to have a button translation path with a static position including the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to the second cannula end and within the needle channel and with an insertion position with the second inner needle free end disposed proximal to second cannula end and outside of the needle channel.
 15. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 12, wherein the button translation path is curvilinear.
 16. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 12, further comprising: a stopper member coupled to the second cannula end in a watertight configuration and defining a terminal end of the outer cannula member, wherein the insertion position of the at least one button includes a portion of the inner needle member length spanning through the stopper member.
 17. The hybrid blunt cannula with puncture needle assembly according to claim 16, wherein the stopper member is configured to at least partially protrude past the terminal end of the second cannula end. 